ENGLISH
REFERENCE

gubernatorial

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ɡuˌbɝnəˈtɔˌɹiəɫ// gu·ber·na·to·ri·al

adj. relating to the leader of a state, known as a governor. You usually hear this word when people talk about elections for a state's top office.

adj. relating to a governor or the office of a governor, particularly within the context of a state in the United States.


SIMPLE

The state is preparing for the upcoming gubernatorial election.

CONTEXTUAL

The candidate spent millions of dollars on television advertisements during her gubernatorial campaign to reach voters in rural areas.

COMPLEX

Political analysts suggest that the outcome of the gubernatorial race will serve as a significant bellwether for the national legislative elections scheduled for the following autumn.

Origin

From Latin gubernātor (“governor”), from gubernō (“govern”), + -ial.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun such as 'election', 'race', 'candidate', or 'mansion'.

Pitfall

the governor electionthe gubernatorial electionWhile 'governor' is the person, the formal adjective 'gubernatorial' is the standard term used to describe the election or the office itself.

© 2026 English Reference